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Technology Overview

OHSU # 2333 — Glaucoma tube implant with modulated flow

Summary

Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have developed a novel mechanism to allow for adjustable flow through a glaucoma drainage implant, offering a time-saving and precise method to effectively control intraocular pressure while also decreasing the potential risk of post-operative complications.

Technology Overview

Glaucoma drainage implants lower elevated intraocular pressure, but, unregulated flow through these drainage devices can cause pressure that is too low, i.e. hypotony, particularly in the immediate post-operative period. Current solutions to this problem include surgical work-arounds, which are inconsistent and time-consuming, and devices with statically-restricting flow, which may reduce the device’s efficacy. The technology developed at OHSU allows flor through a glaucoma drainage device to be turned on or off in a reversible manner. Advantages include:

•       Quick and easy restriction of flow in the early post-surgical period, to prevent hypotony complications,

•       The ability to increase flow after the early post-operative period to ensure effectiveness, and

•       A small patent-pending design that could be connected to existing glaucoma drainage devices.

In summary, this technology could provide surgeons with a time-saving and controlled ability to regulate flow through a glaucoma drainage implant, thereby increasing efficacy and reducing post-operative complications.

Licensing Opportunity

This technology is available for exclusive or non-exclusive licensing.

Inventors:

• Robert Kinast
• David Simons

Patents

Categories:

• Device
• Device - Implantable

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